Homebound travel picked up pace on the first day of the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, with thousands of people crossing the Padma Bridge smoothly, avoiding the long tailbacks that once defined journeys to the south.
On Tuesday, a ground visit to the Mawa end of the bridge showed a significant increase in traffic volume, yet no major congestion was observed. Vehicles were able to cross the bridge within 7 to 8 minutes, thanks to improved traffic management and toll collection systems.
Authorities have expanded toll collection capacity at the Mawa toll plaza. Motorcycles are now being processed through four lanes--three of them newly added, while other vehicles are using seven lanes, reducing waiting times.
In addition, electronic toll collection (ETC) has been introduced at both ends of the bridge, allowing vehicles to pay tolls without stopping. Two lanes on each side are dedicated to ETC, ensuring a continuous flow of traffic even during peak hours.
Officials said the speed limit on both the bridge and the expressway has been set at 80km/h to maintain safety and discipline. Monitoring has also been intensified, with 181 high-power CCTV cameras installed along the bridge and connecting roads, all centrally controlled from a monitoring room.
According to relevant sources, around 28,000 vehicles crossed the bridge on Monday.
By Tuesday morning alone, almost 10,000 vehicles had already used the bridge, with the amount expected to rise throughout the day.
Traffic Inspector Delwar Hossain, stationed at Mawa, said disciplined driving and adherence to traffic laws have helped ensure a smooth journey for passengers.
Sheikh Ishtiaq Ahmed, additional director of the Padma Bridge authority, said the introduction of a bus bay near the police station before the toll plaza has improved traffic order.
“We have also added extra booths for motorcycles, which has significantly reduced pressure,” he added.
Executive Engineer Abu Sad Niloy noted that the ongoing ETC system has made it easier for vehicles to cross the bridge without delays.
Since its inauguration, the Padma Bridge has generated Tk3,140 crore in toll revenue, officials said.
With enhanced infrastructure and tighter traffic management, this year’s Eid journey through the Padma Bridge appears far more comfortable, offering relief to millions of holiday travelers.
